We Deserve Better: Over 1,000 Rally in Loughrea Demanding New Sports Facilities
We Deserve Better: Over 1,000 Rally in Loughrea Demanding New Sports Facilities
A major rally took place this Sunday morning, 29th September, in Loughrea, where over 1,000 people braved the wind and rain to voice their frustrations over the ongoing struggle to secure new sports facilities for the area. The rally, organised by the Loughrea Sports and Community Development Group, began at 10am from Weavers Car Park on Main Street.
Protesters of all ages, representing a wide range of sports and recreation clubs, carried placards reading, ‘We deserve better’, ‘We need more pitches’, and ‘Build the field… build the future.’
Photo: Loughrea Gaelic Football
Local clubs and organisations have long been advocating for proper sports facilities, but the proposed developments have been left out of the Local Area Plan due to zoning issues. The Loughrea Sports and Community Development Group is pushing for a multi-use, multi-sport facility to be built on land between the Bullaun and Kinculla roads. Treasurer Albert Mannion announced that the plans are now under review by the Department of Local Government, after the county council and planning department pushed back.
Photo: Loughrea Gaelic Football
Owen Coughlan, speaking on behalf of the Loughrea Sports and Community Development Group, addressed the large crowd:
‘We have a thriving Camogie Club with a senior team but no playing pitch. Our soccer and football clubs are bursting with young talent, playing wherever they can find space… The kids and teams deserve more – facilities that reflect their dedication, passion, and potential.‘
He continued: ‘We are not asking for miracles. We are asking for what is right. We are asking for what this community needs… Together, we can make sure the next generation of children from Loughrea and the surrounding areas have the opportunities they deserve.‘
Photo: Loughrea Gaelic Football
The rally marks a significant moment in the ongoing push for improved community and sports facilities in Loughrea, as the community awaits the decision from the Department of Local Government.
LSCDG website – The Loughrea Sports & Community Development Group (LSCDG) is a group local business people and professionals. As a voluntary group, we want to ensure the town of Loughrea has sufficient sports and recreational facilities that will grow with the town and serve them well.
Main Photo: Larry Morgan
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